Discover Meeting of the Great Rivers

Don't just see the sites, hit the open road of the Meeting of the Great Rivers Scenic Byway all around Alton and experience it all firsthand. Escape in time to be a part of history as you embark on the journey westward with Lewis & Clark. Shop Alton's "Antique Row" and the surrounding communities for one-of-a-kind finds. Let the river lure you into an outdoor adventure of canoeing, kayaking, boating or fishing. Lace up your hiking boots or mount your bike to escape down the path less travelled on the numerous trails found throughout the region. Sneak away to tee off on the greens at some of St. Louis' best golf courses. You don't need to escape to the big city for a night out on the town. Live music, performing arts, cultural centers, casino gaming and legendary nightlife are calling you.

Stay along the Meeting of the Great Rivers

Cozy cabins high upon the bluffs, luxurious award-winning bed and breakfast inns, full-service hotels ... we have the perfect pillow to lay down your weary head. With approximately 600 rooms available, you'll find the perfect place to stay as you make your escape all around Alton.

Trending along the Meeting of the Great Rivers

Just 25 miles north of St. Louis on the banks of the Mississippi River, visitors are drawn to All Around because of our authentic river experiences that can only be found in our historic communities and real river towns. Check out our featured content below to help you plan your getaway to explore the Meeting of the Great Rivers.

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Fly Away With Eagles

As the winter wind blows in from the north, it’s time to head over to the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway and let your eagle watching adventure begin. Just 25 miles north of St. Louis, Alton is located on the banks of the Mississippi River, and it is the perfect place to become immersed in Mother Nature and the magnificence of the American Bald Eagle migration. Eagle Watching HotspotsBegin your adventure with a stop at the Alton Visitor Center to pick up the newestEagle Watchers Guide. This booklet lists all eagle watching hotspots, eagle events and other eagle promotions in the region. Head northwest on the Great River Road towards Clifton Terrace Park. This area is a great spot to pull in and pull out your binoculars or camera. Right along the riverfront, eagles like to settle in this spot. Turn right onto Clifton Terrace Road and then another right on Route 3 to The Nature Institute.

There are several trails here that you can walk for bluff top views of eagles roosting and soaring over the river. Make your way back to the Great River Road to head further west to Piasa Harbor. Get a close up view of the eagles and the river at this harbor that’s situated between Grafton and Alton. Make sure to save time so you can stroll through Elsah, watching for eagles soaring over the river. Finally, head northwards to TreeHouse Wildlife Center to see live bald eagles every weekend in January and February.

On day two, make your way to the Grafton Riverfront. Walk the riverfront to view eagles perched in the trees and soaring over the river. Further west of the city near the Brussels Ferry entrance, eagles are active. Your third stop of the day will be at Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge at Gilbert Lake. The trees out in the field often have eagles perched there. A three-mile hiking trail connects with Pere Marquette State Park. After a short break, cross the Illinois River on the Brussels Ferry.

Stop by the Two Rivers National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center at Swan Lake. There will be scopes for viewing eagles. There also are trails at Swan Lake. Drive north to Hardin from there as there are great riverfront restaurants perfect for viewing eagles while you dine. Finally, head south to Pere Marquette State Park, the largest state park in Illinois. There are several lookout points that are great to watch for eagles.